Kuyt, who played a key role in a 3-2 win for the Dutch at Wembley on Wednesday, knows the qualities of Gerrard as a captain after the duo enjoyed Carling Cup final success on the same ground against Cardiff 72 hours earlier.

England boss Stuart Pearce preferred to give the armband to Tottenham midfielder Scott Parker, but Kuyt believes that decision was a mistake.

"For me Stevie is the main one for the England team to be the
captain," he said. "On and off the pitch he is such a personality. Of course, it is up to the
manager of England who makes the decision. But in my eyes he is the main one. He is the perfect leader for Liverpool and
the perfect leader for the England team."

Kuyt is hoping Gerrard's early precautionary substitution with a hamstring
injury will mean he is fit to face Arsenal in Saturday's lunchtime meeting at
Anfield.

"It was difficult for Stevie after 120 minutes and penalties on
Sunday in the final," said Kuyt. "To be fair he shouldn't take any risk whatsoever with his injury. Hopefully
he took the right decision, went off early, and he won't be a problem for the
weekend for another big game."

Arjen Robben believes England can be optimistic for the future despite the Wembley
setback courtesy of his injury-time winner.

The Bayern Munich winger said: "There were quite a few players who were
missing but they have great potential. England have great individual players but it is very important to work with a
team and build on things.

"At the moment in the Champions League,
you see some English teams have difficulties. But the English [Premier League] is still great. I had a great time here and
who knows? Is the quality not so good? I don't know," he said.